Sphinx

A Sphinx is an iconic image of a recumbent lion with a human head, invented by the Egyptians of the Old Kingdom, but a cultural import in archaic Greek mythology, where it received its name (Greek Σφι?ξ, "strangler"). The best known is the Great Sphinx of Giza.

19th century and symbolism

Sphinxes were too somber perhaps for the Rococo, and they tended to disappear from the European design repertory - until revived in the 19th century, with its romanticism, and later symbolism. Many of these sphinxes rather alluded to the Theban sphinx, than the Egyptian.

Related Topics:
Rococo - 19th century - Romantic - Symbolism - Theban sphinx

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